Message-ID: <000001c16096$cb6a8080$a9b088ce@pavilion>
From: "J. N. Cameron" <toucan@The-I.net>
To: "Lancair List" <lancair.list@olsusa.com>
Subject: Hazards of working with Imron & other acrylic polyurethanes
Date: Sun, 28 Oct 2001 11:33:52 -0600
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>>
    Never hurts to reiterate:  Imron and similar acrylic polyurethanes emit
isocyanates when sprayed.  These compounds are pretty toxic, and can be
absorbed not only through the lungs, but also through the skin and
particularly the eyes (!).

    My get-up when I paint consists of:

        --  Forced air respirator from Hobby Air
        --  Tyvek hood, same source
        --  Long sleeves tucked into rubber gloves
        --  Long pants

Typical procedure is to spray, get out, come back 15 minutes later (still in
protective gear), open windows, get out again until air has cleared.

    There are several web sites that give toxicity data (try searching on
"isocyanates" at google.com).  The message is actually kind of mixed.  Lots
of folks who work with it for years have no problems, but there is the odd
individual that develops something nasty like acute bronchial asthma and
dies on the way to the hospital.  None of these cases involve individuals
wearing proper protective gear.

    The rig described above is actually not that expensive or that much of a
nuisance to wear.  I'd suggest buying the respirator with the longer hose.
When you're painting around big stuff you never seem to have enough hose.
Also, buy a supply of the disposable shields for the hood.  They can be
cleaned a couple of times with alcohol, but after a while you can't see very
well through them.

    Once you're properly protected, Imron is really nice to work with.  It's
tough as hell, buffs up beautifully, and is easier to repair or touch up
than clear coat systems.  I spray it with a Sata HVLP gun, using a DeVilbiss
filter and regulator system.


Jim Cameron
N143ES reserved


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